Typical Cycle

Fertility Drugs | Typical Cycle | Success/Risk

Gonadotropins are usually begun in the first part of the menstrual cycle, typically day two or three (day one is defined as the first day of full flow menstrual bleeding). The medications are usually given subcutaneously (sub-Q) in the skin of the abdomen or thigh for approximately four to six days prior to the first appointment for monitoring. The monitoring of gonadotropin usage requires serial ultrasonography and serum (blood) evaluations of estrogen levels. These laboratory results are reviewed by the physician (usually in the afternoon) and the patient is called with further instructions. It is important to understand that therapy with gonadotropins is very individualized. There is no way to accurately predict how much medication an individual patient will need prior to ovulation. Therefore, it is necessary that you are available for blood testing in the office and for instructions in the afternoon for the duration of the treatment cycle.

After one to several follicles (egg-containing ovarian cyst) are available, triggering of ovulation will be by injection of a medication called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG, Ovidrel). HCG is usually without serious side effects but may be associated with nervousness, restlessness, headache, depression, fatigue, anxiety, water retention and tenderness/bruising at the injection site.

After hCG administration instructions will be given regarding timed sexual relations or intrauterine insemination.